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In an era of increasing environmental and ethical awareness, consumers are seeking jewellery that not only captivates with its beauty but also embodies sustainability and responsible sourcing. Recycled precious metals offer a compelling solution for those committed to reducing the industry’s environmental impact. In this article, we will explore the concept of recycled precious metals, their benefits, the process of recycling, and why here at Jacqueline and Edward, we have decided to embrace them as an ethical choice.
Recycled precious metals are materials derived from existing sources such as jewellery, industrial scrap, electronics and dental work. Instead of relying solely on newly mined metals, these recycled materials are processed, refined and transformed into new pieces of jewellery. By giving a second life to previously used metals, the process helps reduce the need for additional mining and minimises the environmental impact associated with extraction and processing. Around 90% of recycled gold comes from jewellery, and the remaining 10% of recycled gold is extracted from technology. However, this number hopefully should be changing. There is an estimated 0.034 grams of gold in your iPhone, so one tonne of iPhones would result in 300 times more gold than a tonne of gold ore. Equally, recycled gold accounts for around 25% of global supply, yet it is estimated that in the next 15 years the planet’s commercially mineable gold reserves will be depleted. The United Nations E-waste Monitor in 2020 stated 53.6 million tonnes of electronic waste was created in 2019. However, only one-sixth of this was gathered and recycled.
A brief overview of the environmental benefits of using recycled precious metals.
Mining precious metals can be a resource-intensive and environmentally damaging process. Gold mining aids deforestation and the loss of biodiversity in areas that were previously uninterrupted. Dams that hold waste (known as Tailings dams) have the capacity to cause huge damage and have done so in the past; this has resulted in numerous deaths and contaminated drinking water, also known as acid mine drainage. The United Nations Brundtland Commission Report defines sustainability as “meeting the need of the present without compromising the ability of future generations” (1987), emphasising the point that although the past of recycled gold cannot be changed, we are no longer contributing to harmful mining practices.
By choosing jewellery crafted from recycled precious metals, you contribute to the conservation of finite resources, such as gold and platinum. This sustainable approach reduces the demand for new mining activities, preserving natural habitats and reducing water pollution and carbon emissions associated with mining operations. Metal recycling also uses significantly less energy than making jewellery from a new metal ore, thus reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It is estimated that recycled gold produces around 99.8% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than mined gold, and recycling platinum produces around 1/20th of the emissions that mining new platinum ore does, which is a huge 95% reduction.
Extracting metals causes excess chemical waste, including toxins like mercury, cyanide and lead, which can seep into ecosystems and local water supplies. Artisanal or small-scale gold miners (ASGM) are the largest source of mercury pollution globally. Miners crush rock into a powder, then create a mixture by combining ore and water with mercury. The mercury evaporates after being heated and goes into the atmosphere, leaving behind the gold. This poses a huge risk to human and animal life; as the mercury travels through the atmosphere, it can be inhaled, causing tumours, organ failure or death. This is notably a problem in states with unstable governments, as safety measures are unlikely to be upheld, resulting in below-standard water quality.
Equally, mining raises concerns about the safety of workers in small-scale unregulated mines. Exposure to dust inhalation, unsuitable mining equipment, and forced or child labour are all common occurrences in unregulated mines. Around 90% of the world’s gold miners are artisanal or small-scale gold miners (ASGM), meaning they work in informal, unregulated environments. Equally, even states with smaller gold reserves are not exempt from social issues. Venezuela has a limited gold supply yet is run by armed rebels, known for their violence and continuation of substandard working conditions.
By opting for jewellery made from recycled precious metals, you support responsible sourcing practices and help reduce the negative social and environmental consequences associated with mining. This choice promotes fair and ethical practice within the jewellery industry.
Recycled precious metals maintain the same quality and beauty as newly mined metals. Through the refining and purification process, impurities are removed, resulting in pure metals that can be transformed into exquisite jewellery pieces. Gold has been recycled, reused and refined multiple times yet never loses its lustre or durability. The same can be said for platinum Whether you choose a recycled gold engagement ring or a platinum wedding ring, you can rest assured that recycled metal maintains its inherent lustre, durability and elegance.
Recycled precious metals offer a sustainable and responsible alternative for crafting exquisite jewellery. By choosing jewellery made from recycled materials, you contribute to the conservation of natural resources, reduce environmental impact, support ethical sourcing practices, and maintain the same quality and beauty as newly mined metals. At Jacqueline and Edward, we understand the importance of using recycled materials to create pieces that not only captivate with their elegance but also symbolise a commitment to a better and more sustainable world.
The process of recycling precious metals begins with the collection of discarded jewellery, electronic waste, and other metal-containing waste. The materials are then sorted and refined to remove impurities and to separate alloying elements. After the refining process, the metals are cast into bars or sheets, ready to be used again in new jewellery creations.
The Brundtland Report (1987) defines sustainable development as ‘Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs’. By using only recycled precious metals, we can continue to create beautiful jewellery whilst minimising the adverse environmental and social impacts of harmful mining practices and help to ensure future generations can do the same.
One concern that some consumers might have about recycled precious metals is their quality and durability. However, recycled metals possess the same properties as newly mined ones, as they undergo rigorous purification processes. They maintain their integrity and are as strong and durable as their virgin counterparts.
We use recycled metals because we consider them a more sustainable and ethical option than virgin metals. Choosing recycled metals reduces the environmental impact of your jewellery. With a growing awareness of how our actions impact the planet, recycled precious metals emerge as a fantastic alternative to virgin mining, signalling a potentially profound change in the jewellery industry. At Jacqueline and Edward, we are proud to be a part of this global shift.
